After Dave Roberts confirmed as much days ago, and now it’s officially official: Julio Urias heads to extended spring training. The 20-year-old will pitch in Oklahoma City until the Dodgers promote him.

We’ve known for a while Urias wouldn’t make the initial roster. McCullough suggests his limit is 160-180 innings. The Dodgers want Urias available for the postseason, so stressing his arm in April made little sense.

Urias is the most talented prospect in the system. He projects as a No. 1 starter, and would enter his prime as Clayton Kershaw exits his. Controllable arms are the most valuable assets in baseball. The Dodgers don’t want to risk burning Urias out early – or specifically to this season, a Stephen Strasburg situation.

Expect Los Angeles to continue moving cautiously with Urias when he’s called up. The franchise is prioritizing his long-term health over anything else.

About The Author

Gabe Burns is an award-winning journalist. He serves as a reporter and editor at the DodgersNation news desk. He additionally works as editor-in-chief of The Spectator, Valdosta State University's student paper. Gabe's work has been featured on a number of platforms, including Draft Breakdown and Pro Football Spot. His byline has been cited in media such as the New York Times, Los Angeles Times and Chicago Tribune. Aside from covering Dodgers baseball, Gabe enjoys watching the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Orlando Magic and Tampa Bay Lightning. He can be followed on Twitter at @GabeBurns_DN.